A 9-year-old boy presents with interstitial keratitis, sensorineural deafness, and notched, barrel-shaped permanent incisors. What is the most likely underlying infection?
- A Congenital rubella syndrome
- B Congenital toxoplasmosis
- C Late congenital syphilis ✓
- D Lepromatous leprosy
Correct answer: C. Late congenital syphilis
Explanation
Hutchinson triad consists of interstitial keratitis, eighth nerve deafness, and Hutchinson teeth (notched, widely spaced central incisors), the classic stigmata of late congenital syphilis. Rubella causes deafness and cataract but not notched incisors, and leprosy can cause keratitis but does not produce dental notching.
Reference: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 21st ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.